Personally, I wouldn't trust any of my important documents to be left in a suitcase. No matter where you are travelling from, it is unfortunate that items go missing and/or are stolen. It would be terrible for such an exciting day to be ruined by the loss of some irreplaceable items.

We have always been met by friendly and polite Customs and Immigration officials when we have travelled to Canada. This is in keeping with their fundamental commitment to provide such a service. The one thing I'll add is that no matter how bad a journey/day you have had ALWAYS be nice back!

As with most countries around the world, Canada takes its security extremely seriously and will not bend the rules for anybody. The guidelines are quite straight forward and to ensure a problem free arrival its imperative you stick to them. There are two main pamphlets available to assist you depending upon your circumstances.

RC4151 - Settling in Canada is the document to guide you if you are settling in Canada for the first time or after being abroad for over 3 years (For Canadians).

Also, for those who are moving to Canada to study or work temporarily the pamphlet RC4220 Entering Canada to Study or to Work will be your guide.

Ensure all your possessions you bring with you are listed with values in Canadian Dollar have two copies ready - one to keep and one for the officials. To speed things up when you land you can download and print the forms B4 and B4A from the CBSA website. It’s best to have all your lists typed out to make life easier for the officials. Also, you will need the same forms for the goods to follow (if any). No import tax or duties are payable on settlers personal and household effects as long as you have owned, possessed and used them prior to arrival in Canada. If possible try and find any receipts and/or registration documents to support this.

Part of the "landing" process involves sorting out the paperwork for the "Goods to follow" and items you have brought with you. We had to report in person with our lists within 5 days at the Canada Customs District Office. All our paperwork was checked and that was it. We had to present the paperwork to claim the box we had couriered over and then send it off to the shipping agents in Vancouver to clear customs at the port of entry. Due to the fluid nature of legislation always contact the CBSA for the latest rules!